Ulster Rugby vs Leinster

OFFICIAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME | PRICE £3.00

RUGBY VS LEINSTER Friday 24th April 2015 - Kingspan Stadium - Kick Off 19.35

Official sponsor of Ulster Rugby

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT Good evening and welcome to another exciting Friday evening at Kingspan Stadium. Ulster take on Leinster tonight in a crucial home PRO12 match. With Ulster now third in the table, just behind Munster but only two points behind leaders, Glasgow it’s all to play for with Ulster within touching distance of a home final. This promises to be an exhilarating evening at Kingspan Stadium. We extend a warm welcome to all the Leinster fans who have travelled here to support their team. Kingspan Stadium is once again a fortress and it is where Ulster plays best thanks to the energy and support of the home fans. This season marks the 18th year of our proud association with Ulster Rugby and we remain committed to the team. At Bank of Ireland we stand together with the fans, sharing their passion and together we are all the driving force behind our Ulster Rugby team. Good Luck Ulster!

Ian Sheppard // Head of Business & Corporate Banking NI Bank of Ireland

Official sponsor of Ulster Rugby

IRFU ULSTER BRANCH

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

OFFICERS John Kinnear // President Bobby Stewart // Senior Vice President John McKibbin // Junior Vice President John McKibbin // Honorary Secretary Michael Boyd // Honorary Treasurer Denis Gardiner // Competitions Secretary EXECUTIVE TEAM Shane Logan // Chief Executive Chris Webster // Domestic Rugby Manager Audrey Robinson // Financial Controller Fiona Hampton // Head of Sales & Marketing

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you here to Kingspan Stadium for this Guinness PRO12 match against Leinster.

achievement of Joe Schmidt’s team in winning the Championship last month. We will see players from that team going head to head against each other this evening as they seek to lift more silverware before the end of the season. It promises to be a fantastic rugby match and with the game being shown by our broadcast partners Sky Sports and BBC Northern Ireland, it will be a top-class showcase for Irish Rugby. Congratulations to all the teams who have competed in the club finals at Kingspan Stadium over the past month and particularly the winners: Ballynahinch 2nd XV, Omagh 2nd XV, Queen’s University 2nd XV, Malone 5th XV, Limavady 1st XV and Ballymena 5th XV. Finally, well done to those who took part in the Ireland U19s Girls Sevens Screening Event at Dungannon RFC a couple of weeks ago. Hopefully we will see some of them go on to represent Ireland Women in years to come. As always thank you for your support and Stand up for the Ulstermen. Yours in Rugby, John Kinnear // President IRFU (Ulster Branch)

I would particularly like to welcome the President of the Leinster Branch, John Glackin and the officials, players and supporters who have made the trip North. You are all very welcome in Belfast. The Guinness PRO12 season is heading towards an exciting finale and it is great that three Irish provinces are still in the running for a play-off spot. While Leinster are in the unfamiliar position of 5th in the league, we know that as long as they still have a chance they will be going all-out to secure a top four place. Last week they were unfortunate to come out on the wrong side of a ferocious battle with Toulon in the semi-final of the European Rugby Champions Cup. 100 minutes of rugby will have had its toll but they will be coming here knowing nothing but a win will do. However, Ulster, off the back of an excellent performance against Connacht, know that victory this evening will guarantee them a play off spot. With 6 Nations winners such as Rory Best, Tommy Bowe, Jared Payne and Iain Henderson back in the team, Neil Doak’s side have the experience and quality to get the win. The RBS 6 Nations trophy has been touring the province this week. That has served as a reminder of the

Kingspan Stadium, 85 Ravenhill Park, Belfast, BT6 0DG T // +44 (0)28 9049 3222 ulsterrugby.com

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ULSTER RUGBY

Chief Executive’s

Ladies and Gentlemen, Welcome to Round 20 in the Guinness PRO12! There’s another feast of rugby this weekend which we hope you enjoy ! Ulster will want to continue their winning ways & move up the table to secure a home semifinal while Leinster seek to stay in contention for a Play-Off position after their great European run came to an end last weekend. All derby matches produce something special and tonight will be no exception. Both teams will be trying to earn those priceless winning points here as we’re now at the business end of the season with only 3 matches left in the league section. Fans of today’s teams have already bought tickets to this year’s Guinness PRO12 Final here at Kingspan Stadium, Belfast on Saturday May 30th 2015 at 6.30pm. General tickets are now sold out. The Final will be broadcast live on Sky Sports and on a terrestrial television channel (BBC Wales/Alba/Northern Ireland – S4C – TG4), depending on who the finalists are. Each of the finalists will receive 2,000 tickets which will be in strong demand. After Round 19 little separates many of the teams in the Guinness PRO12. There are 4.62 tries scored per match on average, and this figure is increasing as weather improves, so lots of good entertainment and lots to play for ! I would like to pay tribute to the work of the match officials this season and wish them all the very best for these Round 20 fixtures and the rest of the season. Finally and most importantly, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of all our clubs, partners, all our broadcasters & media and you the supporters, who ensure all 12 clubs and the competition have fantastic support throughout the season. Enjoy tonight’s match and I hope everyone revels in another great rugby weekend!

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TONIGHT’S MASCOTS

MASCOTS

SCOTT ISHERWOOD (12) Scott is from Omagh and attends Omagh Academy. He plays rugby at school and also for Omagh Accies. Scott’s great Grandad was capped for Ireland and also for the Lions. It would be a huge honour and privilege for him to run out at Kingspan Stadium and it will make his Grandad very proud.

FAITH ELWOOD (12) Faith is from Crossgar and attends Down High School. She enjoys watching rugby, playing hockey and body boarding. She is looking forward to meeting the players and Sparky tonight. Faith’s favourite player is Nick Williams because he is a great player and he is really strong.

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ULSTER RUGBY

RORY BEST: CAPTAIN Q&A

three games if not all of them. It’s a big game but we are coming to the stage of the season where all games are massive games. They had a massive one last weekend and because they narrowly lost it during extra time, this becomes an even bigger game for them. The same applies for us, we had a massive game away to Connacht to set us on track for a top four place. Now this weekend becomes even more important because these next three games in the calendar are critical to win for a play-off place. How much more of an incentive is it knowing that the final will be played at Kingspan Stadium? We are in a unique position, regardless of where we finish in the league or in the top four we are guaranteed a home final, no other team has had that. They all know apart from us that if they get to a final they have to travel. So for us it is an incentive. In previous years to get a home final you had to finish first or you could finish second and hope that the team in first lose. Whereas if we finish first or second, we could be in a position where it is a home semi and home final and that is ultimately what you play the whole season for. You try to be the best team to get that home advantage. The league have decided to host a destination final which this year played into our hands but we have a lot of work to do to make sure that we get there. It is by no means cut and dry, we have a tough run in starting on Friday night. Then hopefully, a semi-final to win but just because the final is at Kingspan Stadium doesn’t necessarily mean that Ulster will be there, we have got to make sure that we are there. It is a big week for the Best family this week… Yes, we had a wee boy, born on Wednesday at 9.30am. He was 9 pounds, 13 ounces. Rugby is brilliant and it has brought me a lot of enjoyment but at the same time there is nothing quite like family. Welcoming my third child is hard to believe from when I started out my Ulster career unmarried and no kids and now some 11 years on, I am married with three kids. I still enjoy rugby as much as ever but days like Wednesday remind you what it’s all about. I play rugby to support my family and to make them proud of me so yesterday really brought that home again. Jodie’s poor dad got sacked yesterday by our eldest boy, Ben who told him that he wasn’t needed to play rugby anymore in the garden because now he had a little baby brother to play with. So for me that is what rugby is all about. My family love coming to watch at Kingspan Stadium and supporting Ulster and hopefully Richie will be no different.

Having won the Six Nations Championship for the second year in a row last month with a team made up of more Leinster players than Ulster players, how does that affect the dynamic of Friday’s game? At this stage in my career, I am well used to differentiating between Ulster and Ireland. When you are down there, those guys are your teammates and we all get on really well. This Ireland squad, who have been building over the last number of years, is probably the closest one that I have been involved in. There is a lot of good craic and everyone gets on really well. But ultimately when you come back to Ulster it’s about succeeding and leading Ulster. I have had great success with Ireland this season and now it’s time to succeed with Ulster. We will all shake hands at the end of the game and we all get on great so there will be a bit banter after the game, but in the lead up, my focus is trying to win this game for Ulster. Does having two Leinster players on either side of you in the scrum for Ireland set you up with an advantage tactically going into this game? It is really a double edged sword, I know them well and have built a good relationship with them based on trust and based on knowing what they are going to do but on the flip side, they also know me well. I am sure the feeling will be mutual on Friday night, whoever Leinster play, they have a great front row with some very dominant props so it is going to be a challenge no matter how well I know them. Leinster suffered a European Cup semi-final defeat at the weekend after 100 minutes, do you think that will affect their performance this weekend? They have a lot of internationals and a lot of guys who are used to playing big games week in week out and rising to the occasion so I am sure Friday will be no different. Emotionally it will be tough, losing in a semi-final as we have done a few times. It is not easy and it can be tough to take. But the beauty of having the PRO12 competition is that it can now be the main focus with the view to having a week off next week to recuperate their bodies for the run in. They will be coming up here to win a game, they will not be thinking about how tough the game was five days previously. With the PRO12 the sole focus for both teams I’m sure it will make for an entertaining game? It will be a tough game, both teams have a lot to lose, with being at home there is extra pressure on us. We have had a good run at home in the league and their backs are against the wall, knowing they have to win at least two of their last

RORY BEST

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ULSTER RUGBY

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“I HAVE HAD GREAT SUCCESS WITH IRELAND THIS SEASON AND NOW IT’S TIME TO SUCCEED WITH ULSTER.” RORY BEST

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SUPPORTING MENCAP’S BIG STEP FORWARD APPEAL

OFFICIAL CHARITY PARTNER 2014/15

Ulster Rugby is supporting Mencap in Northern Ireland as the province’s Official Charity for the 2014/15 season

1. To donate £3 Text MENCAP to 70660 * 2. Give to a Mencap collector tonight 3. Go to www.mencapbigstepforward. org and donate or to find out more information about Mencap’s Big Step Forward Appeal *Texts cost £3 plus network rate with Mencap receiving 100% of your donation. Obtain bill payers permission. Customer care 02890 691351. Charity number 222377 STAND UP FOR MENCAP’S BIG STEP FORWARD APPEAL Through supporter donations, bucket collections, three ‘Big Step Forward’ nights, auctions and a charity calendar, more than £17,000 has already been raised to fund a soft-play area within the nursery. At the heart of the new centre, which will open in early 2016, will be Mencap’s relocated Segal House Nursery.

As part of our fundraising efforts, an Ulster Rugby staff team is running the Deep Riverrock Belfast City Marathon on 4th May. They are training hard and are being put through their paces by Ulster and Ireland winger, Andrew Trimble. He says: “Usually it is me working on my fitness and having to do the hard-yards, so it is nice to be training other people for a change!” “Many of the players have seen the amazing work that Mencap do and whether it is running the marathon, dressing up or giving a donation, I would encourage all Ulster fans to give what they can and to help the ‘Big Step Forward’ appeal”. To donate to Mencap and the fundraising efforts of the Ulster Rugby staff relay team please please visit www.justgiving.com/UlsterRugby/ By teaming up with the learning disability charity, Ulster Rugby is supporting Mencap’s Big Step Forward Appeal, which aims to raise at least £1.7m locally to build, equip and run its new Children and Families’ centre to be built in Newtownbreda.

We urgently need to raise £1.7

million to build, equip and run our new centre and tonight you can help by texting a donation or by giving to one of our

Mencap collectors around the stadium.

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ULSTER RUGBY

IT’S ALL COMING TO A HEAD

NICKNAME: JP / Payno FAVOURITE SONG/ARTIST? Macklemore CAN YOU COOK? Yea WHAT’S YOUR SIGNATURE DISH? Leg of lamb on the BBQ LAST BOOK YOU READ? Alex Ferguson’s Book FAVOURITE TV SHOW? Outrageous Fortune WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO BE STUCK IN A LIFT WITH? Andrew Cameron WHO’S THE LAST PERSON YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE STUCK IN A LIFT WITH? Joel Berg DO YOU HAVE A PET? Yes, Dog PET’S NAME? Duke 2 MINUTES JARED PAYNE WITH

IN FOCUS

BEST MATE ON TEAM? Baggins QUICKEST? Scholsey HARDEST? Ragnor BEST NICKNAME? Baggins BEST DANCER? Kev Geary BEST DRESSER? Trimby

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ULSTER RUGBY

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COME AND TRY WHEELCHAIR RUGBY EVENT: SATURDAY 25TH APRIL

A ‘Come and Try Wheelchair Rugby’ event, organised by the South Eastern HSC Trust, Ulster Rugby, Disability Sport NI and Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council will take place at the Antrim Forum at 12 noon tomorrow.

WHEELCHAIR RUGBY EVENT

The event is open to all wheelchair users, male and female, who would be interested in getting involved in the sport, at a competitive level or as a hobby. The hosts, Ulster Barbarians Wheelchair Rugby Club, is the only club of its type in the province and is affiliated with the Irish Wheelchair Association and Irish Wheelchair Rugby. It’s a young, but extremely ambitious club with a current membership of 12 players, 10 male and two female, from all over Ulster. Four of the Barbarians have achieved international honours, representing Ireland. The club is based at Antrim Forum and training is on Monday evenings between 7-9pm. The team participate in the annual Irish League and have also competed in tournaments in Scotland and Germany. The aim is to build on the existing success with a view to entering a team in the Great Britain Wheelchair Rugby League in the 2015/16 season. As well as prospective players, the Barbarians are also looking for volunteers to help out. For more information please visit www.ulsterbarbarians.com or email info@ulsterbarbarians.com.

COME AND TRY EVENT DATE: SATURDAY 25TH APRIL 2015 VENUE: ANTRIM FORUM 20 - 30 LOUGH ROAD ANTRIM BT41 4DQ TIME: 12 NOON - 3PM To register for the event, please email: sandra.bryans@setrust.hscni.net

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ULSTER RUGBY

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CLUB COACHING VACANCIES

City of Derry is looking to recruit a Head Coach or Player / Coach for the senior squad ahead of the 2015/16 season. The 1st XV currently plays in Ulster Bank League Division 2B. The ideal candidate will have: > coached at 1st XV level in the Ulster Bank League or higher; > a minimum Stage 4 current IRFU coaching qualification (accredited) or similar; > excellent organisational, inter-personal, analytical and communications skills; CIVIL SERVICE RFC Civil Service RFC is currently recruiting for the position of Head Coach for the 2015/16 season. Applications from a Player / Coach wishing to fulfil the role would also be welcome. The club will be fielding two senior teams in the coming season, with the 1st XV competing in Kukri Qualifying League 3, after gaining promotion from a very successful season, and the 2nd XV in Minor League East 2. Candidates should, as a minimum, have: > completed their IRFU Stage 3 (Level 1) coaching accreditation (or equivalent) and will report to the Club Chairman of Selectors > a robust curriculum vitae > aspiration to assist the club to grow through the progression of our mini and burgeoning youth systems and continue to develop current senior players, in addition to assisting and directing in the recruitment of new players. Expressions of interest should be made by forwarding a CV by means of email to the 1st XV Team Manager Arthur Kerr, (arthur.kerr@tinyworld.co.uk). The closing date for applications is Friday 8th May 2015. CITY OF DERRY RFC

DONAGHADEE RFC Donaghadee RFC is currently recruiting for the position of Head Coach of the club for the 2015/16 season. Applications from a Player / Coach wishing to fulfill the role would also be welcome. The club will have three senior teams in the 2015/16 season, with the 1st XV competing in Kukri Qualifying League 2, the 2nd XV in Junior League 3 and the 3rd XV in the Minor League. Candidates should, as a minimum, have: > completed their IRFU Stage 3 (Level 1) coaching accreditation (or equivalent) and will report to the Club Director of Rugby > a robust curriculum vitae > an aspiration to assist the club to grow through the progression of our mini and fledgling youth systems and continue to develop our current senior players, in addition to assisting and directing in the recruitment of new players. Expressions of interest should be made by forwarding a CV by means of email to Director of Rugby, Chris Good (chrisgood40@hotmail. com). On application, each interested party will receive a Job Specification. The closing date for applications is Friday 8th May 2015. > the capacity to deliver on all aspects of the performance of the Senior Team; > the ability to work within a team environment > the acumen to apply the club’s Player Development Pathway; > the ability to work with and manage the 1st XV Management team, Assistant coaches, Coach Analyst, Conditioning Coaches and Physios. Please forward your CV to Vice-Chairman Rugby Development, City of Derry RFC, Judges Road, Campsie, Londonderry BT47 6LN or email to mossdineen@live.co.uk.

COACHING VACANCIES

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ULSTER RUGBY

OFFICIAL CLOTHING PARTNER OF ULSTER RUGBY

NEW ICONIC ART INSTALLATION UNVEILED AT KINGSPAN STADIUM

A new sculpture featuring an abstract representation of rugby in Ulster has been unveiled at Kingspan Stadium ahead of the province’s Guinness PRO12 match against Leinster.

KINGSPAN STADIUM SCULPTURE

President of the IRFU (Ulster Branch), John Kinnear, believes that the new sculpture will become a much-loved addition to Kingspan Stadium: He said: “The new sculpture is absolutely magnificent and incorporates all the values that Ulster Rugby holds dear – namely inclusivity, teamwork and sporting excellence.

“I would like to thank Sara for her vision and her remarkable ability in creating such a wonderful piece of art. I would also like to thank DCAL for funding the project and for their ongoing support. “I have no doubt that this sculpture will be enjoyed by generations of Ulster Rugby fans to come and it is another fantastic addition to our already world-class stadium.”

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ULSTER RUGBY

RHINO ARE PROUD TO BE THE OFFICIAL MATCH BALL OF THE GUINNESS PRO12 2014/15 www.rhinorugby.com

CLUB RUGBY UPDATE

ULSTER BANK LEAGUE

DIVISION 1A All-Ireland League champions: To be confirmed Final, Aviva Stadium, 1pm, Saturday 9th May Semi-finals: Lansdowne (1st) v Young Munster (4th), Aviva Stadium back pitch; Terenure College (2nd) v Clontarf (3rd), Lakelands Park 2.30pm, Saturday, April 25 Division 1A promotion/relegation play-off: St. Mary’s College (second-from-bottom in Division 1A) v Garryowen (Division 1B runners-up) St. Mary’s College with home advantage Relegated (one automatic) : Dolphin Ten Division 1A clubs for next season: Lansdowne, Terenure College, Clontarf, Young Munster, Old Belvedere, UCD, Ballynahinch , Cork Constitution, Galwegians, St. Mary’s College or Garryowen DIVISION 1B All-Ireland League champions: Galwegians Promoted (one automatic) : Galwegians Division 1A promotion/relegation play-off: Garryowen (Division 1B runners-up) v St. Mary’s College (second-from-bottom in Division 1A) St. Mary’s College with home advantage Relegated (two automatic) : Malone and Corinthians Ten Division 1B clubs for next season: St. Mary’s College or Garryowen, Dolphin, Dublin University, Ballymena, Belfast Harlequins , Shannon, Buccaneers, UL Bohemians, Old Wesley, Blackrock College

DIVISION 2B All-Ireland League champions: Highfield Four clubs qualifying for Division 2B next season: Highfield, Armagh , Greystones, Sunday’s Well Ten Division 2B clubs for next season: NUIM Barnhall, City of Derry, Rainey Old Boys, Dungannon, Seapoint, Bective Rangers, Highfield, Armagh , Greystones, Sunday’s Well DIVISION 2C Next season will see the Ulster Bank League restructured into five divisions of 10 teams each, including the new Division 2C Ten Division 2C clubs for next season: Tullamore, Midleton, Bruff, Sligo, Wanderers, Old Crescent, Navan, Kanturk, Boyne, plus the winners of play-off game between De La Salle Palmerston (14th-ranked Division 2B club) and the Provincial Qualifying League Championship table toppers (Dundalk) Division 2C play-off: De La Salle Palmerston (14th-ranked Division 2B club) v Provincial Qualifying League Championship table toppers (Dundalk) Relegated from Ulster Bank League (two automatic) : Richmond and Ards

DIVISION 2A Champions: Old Wesley Promoted (two automatic): Old Wesley and Blackrock College

Ten Division 2A clubs for next season: Malone , Corinthians, Skerries, Banbridge , Cashel, Queen’s University , Naas, Thomond, Nenagh Ormond, UCC Six clubs dropping down to Division 2B for next season: NUIM Barnhall, City of Derry , Rainey Old Boys, Dungannon , Seapoint, Bective Rangers

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ULSTER RUGBY

ADAM McBURNEY RECEIVES SUPPORTERS CLUB BURSARY AWARD

Young hooker Adam McBurney has been awarded an Ulster Rugby Supporters Club (URSC) Jack Kyle Bursary award for 2014/15.

JACK KYLE BURSARY AWARD

myself to being the best player that I can possibly be.” This is the first time that the URSC has awarded two Bursaries in the same season, second row Alan O’Connor having received a Bursary in January. The URSC Jack Kyle Bursary was inaugurated in 2007 and is awarded on an annual basis to an up and coming member of the Ulster Rugby Academy. The Award worth £2,500 is sponsored by the URSC, using monies raised by its annual Big Ballot, many prizes for which are generously donated by local businesses.

The Bursary is awarded on an annual basis to an up and coming Ulster player and is named in honour of Jack Kyle, who had been President of the URSC for many years prior to his death late last year. Adam receives a cheque for £2,500. Speaking on behalf of the URSC, Chairman Jonathan Bill said: “I am delighted to be able to announce that Adam McBurney will be this season’s second Jack Kyle Bursary recipient. Adam’s dedication to achieve his aspiration to be a top class professional rugby player, despite difficult personal circumstances, is inspirational. It was particularly pleasing to see Adam as an 18 year old gain a starting position in the Ireland under 20 team – just reward for his efforts throughout the season. All URSC members will follow Adam’s career with particular interest and we wish him every success with Ulster and indeed Ireland over the coming years.” Ulster Rugby Age Grade Performance Manager Michael Black said: “Having worked with Adam for a number of years I have first hand experience of his desire and drive to succeed in rugby. This is not only seen on the field, but reflected in his character off the field as well. Despite some difficult personal circumstances in the past year, Adam has never wavered in his dedication to be the best player that he can possibly be. Having come through the club pathway via Randalstown RFC, he has had many challenges along the way, but his achievements to date at provincial and national level are something both he and his family can be very proud of. I was delighted to hear that the URSC felt fit to award a second Jack Kyle Bursary this season, and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank them for assisting Adam on his rugby journey. ” Adam himself said: “I am pleased to be receiving this award, especially as it is from the Ulster Rugby Supporters Club. I am also honoured to be given a bursary that bears the name of the great Jack Kyle. I would like to thank the members of the URSC committee for believing in me and while I am absolutely delighted to be getting it, I also know that accepting such an award carries a responsibility to work hard and to dedicate

PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS OF THE URSC JACK KYLE BURSARY WERE

Alan O’Connor // 2014/15 Angelo Marica // 2013/14 Stuart Olding // 2012/13 Iain Henderson // 2011/12 Craig Gilroy // 2010/11 Paddy McAllister // 2009/10

Ian Whitten // 2008/9 Mark McCrea // 2007/8

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ULSTER RUGBY

2015 PRO12 FINAL HOSPITALITY

H3 Lounge: Tables of 10 · Access to the H3 Lounge from 90 minutes pre-match · 3 course meal served pre-match by Yellow Door · Pre-match drinks (beer, wine and soft drinks) for 90 minutes · Premiummatch ticket · Complimentary match programme · Post-match access for 90 minutes (cash bar available)

2015 Guinness PRO12 Final Saturday 30th May, 6.30pm Cost: £1,800 plus VAT

Please contact the Ulster Rugby Commercial Department to make a booking or alternatively email phillip.polack@ulsterrugby.com

MICHAEL ALLEN

RICKY ANDREW

Centre/Wing 28.11.90 183cm 97kg 45 -

Fullback 02.12.89 185cm 87kg 20 -

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

RORY BEST (C)

CALLUM BLACK

TOMMY BOWE Hooker 15.08.82 180cm 110kg 167 83 ULSTER RUBGY POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

Prop 25.02.86 180cm 110kg 83 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

CHARLIE BUTTERWORTH

Wing 22.02.84 191cm 102kg 131 61

POSITION BORN

Back Row - 195cm 115kg 0 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

DARREN CAVE

ROBBIE DIACK

Centre 05.04.87 184cm 97kg 157 8 // 11A

Back Row 12.11.85 196cm 109kg 148 2 // 2A

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

DECLAN FITZPATRICK

CRAIG GILROY

Wing 11.03.91 183cm 90kg 105 6 // 2A

Prop 12.07.83 182cm 118kg 98 7 // 9A

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

MICHAEL HEANEY

IAIN HENDERSON

Scrumhalf 05.11.90 176cm 78kg 29 -

POSITION BORN

Back Row 21.02.92 200cm 115kg 45 17 // 3A

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

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CHRIS HENRY

WIEHAHN HERBST

Back Row 17.10.84 191cm 105kg 128 16 // 10A

POSITION BORN

Prop 05.07.88 180cm 114kg 22 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

SQUAD 2014/15

ROB HERRING

IAN HUMPHREYS

Hooker 27.04.90 183cm 103kg 68 1 // 2A

Outhalf 24.04.82 178cm 85kg 103 7A

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

PADDY JACKSON

CONOR JOYCE

Outhalf 05.01.92 179cm 87kg 76 9 // 1A

POSITION BORN

Back Row 05.07.93 192cm 106kg 4 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

RICKY LUTTON

LOUIS LUDIK

Prop 26.02.86 183cm 115kg 23 -

POSITION BORN

Fullback 10.08.86 182cm 92kg 20 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

LUKE MARSHALL

PAUL MARSHALL

Centre 03.11.91 181cm 96kg 62 6

POSITION BORN

Scrumhalf 26.07.85 172cm 80kg 144 3 // 2A

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

STUART McCLOSKEY

KYLE McCALL

Centre - 195cm 105kg 15 -

POSITION BORN

Hooker 02.01.92 176cm 108kg 3 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

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ULSTER RUGBY

NEIL McCOMB

MIKE McCOMISH

2nd Row 15.07.83 201cm 120kg 44 -

POSITION BORN

Back Row 07.12.83 190cm 106kg 46 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

SQUAD 2014/15

RUAIDHRI MURPHY

PETER NELSON

Fullback 05.10.92 180cm 84kg 21 -

Prop 05.07.87 187cm 115.5kg 3 -

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

STUART OLDING

JARED PAYNE

Outhalf 11.03.93 176cm 88kg 36 2

Fullback 13.10.85 186cm 97kg 58 4

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

RUAN PIENAAR

SEAN REIDY

Scrumhalf 10.03.84 187cm 90kg 93 79 (SA)

POSITION BORN

Back Row 10.05.89 180cm 100kg 7 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

BRONSON ROSS

CLIVE ROSS

Prop 16.09.85 183cm 118kg 17 -

Back Row 14.06.89 192cm 104kg 18 -

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

DAVE RYAN

RORY SCHOLES

Prop

POSITION BORN

Wing 24.04.93 186cm 95kg 8 -

POSITION BORN

183cm 116kg 0 -

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

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ULSTER RUGBY

Royal CountyDown 28-31 May 2015

This is a land made for golf. A county that is home to one of the world’s greatest courses. A county that is home to Rory McIlroy, the world’s number one golfer. See them and golfing’s elite come together at the Unmissable Irish Open 2015. Say you were there Plan your golf short break at:

JAMES SIMPSON

LEWIS STEVENSON

2nd Row 03.11.90 197cm 115kg 1 -

2nd Row 01.06.84 200cm 116kg

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

78 1A

SQUAD 2014/15

ANDREW TRIMBLE

DAN TUOHY

Wing 20.10.84 187cm 99kg 188 57 // 3A

POSITION BORN

2nd Row 18.06.85 197cm 115kg 121 9 // 4A

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

FRANCO VAN DER MERWE

ANDREW WARWICK

2nd Row 15.03.83 198cm 115kg 22 -

Prop 12.03.91 180cm 111kg 23 -

POSITION BORN

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

NICK WILLIAMS

ROGER WILSON

Back Row 21.09.81 191cm 106kg 176 1 // 11 A

POSITION BORN

Back Row 02.12.83 189cm 122kg 56 -

POSITION BORN

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

HEIGHT WEIGHT ULSTER CAPS INT. CAPS

ULSTER RUGBY SQUAD SEASON 2014/15

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ULSTER RUGBY

ULSTER RUG FRIDAY 24TH APRIL 20 KICK O

15 14 13 12 11

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

CALLUM BLACK

LOUIS LUDIK

RORY BEST (C)

TOMMY BOWE

ULSTER RUGBY

WIEHAHN HERBST

JARED PAYNE

DARREN CAVE

DAN TUOHY

FRANCO VD MERWE

CRAIG GILROY

10

IAIN HENDERSON

PADDY JACKSON

9

CHRIS HENRY

RUAN PIENAAR

REPLACEMENTS FROM 16 17 18 19 R HERRING A WARWICK B ROSS R DIACK 20 21 22 23

8

C ROSS P MARSHALL I HUMPHREYS S McCLOSKEY

ROGER WILSON

REFEREE ASSISTANT REFEREE’S CITING COMMISSIONER TMO TODAYS OFFICIALS

JOHN LACEY (IRFU, 44TH COMPETITION GAME) LEO COLGAN (IRFU) // OLLY HODGES (IRFU) EDDIE WALSH (IRFU) SEAMUS FLANNERY (IRFU)

30

ULSTER RUGBY

www. ulster rugby.com

Y v LEINSTER 5 - KINGSPAN STADIUM F 19.35 1

15 14 13 12 11 10

LEINSTER

CIAN HEALY

ROB KEARNEY

2 3 4 5 6 7

RICHARDT STRAUSS

ZANE KIRCHNER

MIKE ROSS

BEN TE’O

GORDON D’ARCY

DEVIN TONER

LUKE FITZGERALD

MIKE McCARTHY

JIMMY GOPPERTH

DOMINIC RYAN

9 8

ISAAC BOSS

SEAN O’BRIEN

REPLACEMENTS FROM S CRONIN

J MURPHY E REDDAN I MADIGAN D FANNING

16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23

J McGRATH T FURLONG B MARSHALL

JAMIE HEASLIP (C)

Official sponsor of Ulster Rugby

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ULSTER RUGBY

MICHAEL BENT

ISAAC BOSS

Scrum Half 09.04.80 178cm 88kg Ireland (21)

Prop 25.04.86 185cm 118kg Ireland (2)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

JACK CONAN

SEAN CRONIN

Hooker 06.05.86 180cm 101kg Ireland (43)

No. 8 29.07.92 193cm 111kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

SQUAD 2014/15 GORDON D’ARCY

TOM DENTON

Lock 13.02.88 198cm 115kg —

Centre 10.02.80 180cm 91kg Ireland (81)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

AARON DUNDON

DARRAGH FANNING

Hooker 22.06.82 183cm 101kg —

Wing 16.07.86 188cm 96kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

LUKE FITZGERALD

TADHG FURLONG

Wing/Full Back 13.09.87 185cm 91kg Ireland (28)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Prop 14.11.92 185cm 119kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

JIMMY GOPPERTH

CIAN HEALY

Prop 07.10.87 185cm 112kg Ireland (51)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Fly Half 29.06.83 178cm 88kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

32

ULSTER RUGBY

www. ulster rugby.com

JAMIE HEASLIP

SHANE JENNINGS

No. 8 15.12.83 193cm 110kg Ireland (72)

Flanker 08.07.81 185cm 105kg Ireland (13)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

SQUAD 2014/15

ROB KEARNEY

DAVE KEARNEY

Full Back/Wing 26.03.86 185cm 95kg Ireland (62)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Wing/Full Back 19.06.89 180cm 91kg Ireland (7)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

BRENDAN MACKEN

ZANE KIRCHNER

Centre 19.05.91 188cm 95kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Wing/Full Back 16.06.84 185cm 95kg South Africa (29)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

BEN MARSHALL

IAN MADIGAN

Lock/Back Row 08.06.90 196cm 112kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Fly Half 21.03.89 180cm 90kg Ireland (18)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

JACK McGRATH

MIKE McCARTHY

Lock 27.11.81 193cm 115kg Ireland (17)

Prop 11.10.89 185cm 118kg Ireland (17)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

MICK McGRATH

LUKE McGRATH

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Fly Half 17.05.93 191cm 92kg Wales (2)

Scrum Half 03.02.93 175cm 82kg —

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

33

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ULSTER RUGBY

Suppliers of fresh produce to the Ulster Rugby team.

Official suppliers of fresh produce to the Ulster Rugby team.

KEVIN McLAUGHLIN

MARTIN MOORE

Prop 01.03.91 180cm 123kg Ireland (10)

Back Row/Lock 20.09.84 193cm 109kg Ireland (8)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

SQUAD 2014/15

JORDI MURPHY

SEAN O’BRIEN

Back Row 14.02.87 188cm 108kg Ireland (34)

Flanker 22.04.91 188cm 106kg Ireland (9)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

NOEL REID

EOIN REDDAN

Fly Half/Centre 22.05.90 185cm 90kg Ireland (1)

Scrum Half 20.11.80 178cm 83kg Ireland (60)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

MIKE ROSS

RHYS RUDDOCK

Back Row 13.11.90 191cm 111kg Ireland (5)

Prop 21.12.79 188cm 127kg Ireland (49)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

DOMINIC RYAN

RICHARDT STRAUSS

Flanker 28.03.90 193cm 106kg Ireland (1)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

Hooker 09.01.86 173cm 101kg Ireland (6)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

BEN TE’O

DEVIN TONER

Back Row 27.01.87 188cm 104kg —

Lock 29.06.86 208cm 124kg Ireland (25)

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

POSITION BORN HEIGHT WEIGHT INT CAPS

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ULSTER RUGBY

2 MINUTES GORDON D’ARCY WITH

IN FOCUS

THE PRE-MATCH MEAL? Very boring! Chicken with rice. THE MUSIC?

A good mix from The Libertines to Chemical Brothers to Basement Jaxx THE BOOTS? Nike Vapours THE DRINK? Rooibos tea THE SUPERSTITION? I always run through plays in my head just before kick off. THE PITCH? Donnybrook. It was my first start for Leinster at home. THE GAME? Leinster versus Leicester in that Heineken Cup Final in 2009. THE PLAYER? Felipe Contepomi – a great friend and great player. THE JERSEY? My last jersey for Clongowes Wood College is very special as schoolboy rugby has some of the best memories for me. THE DRESSING-ROOM NEIGHBOUR? Loving being beside Jordi Murphy… but Brendan Macken would be a close second.

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ULSTER RUGBY

Book direct at hastingshotels.com

for your chance to win £150 Hastings Gift Cheques and other prizes every month!

SALE 40%OFF EVERYTHING Excludes Accessories & Babywear

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STUART McCLOSKEY PLAYING HIS PART

It has been a season of ups and downs for breakthrough centre, Stuart McCloskey. He has just signed a professional contract at the age of 22 and has high hopes of playing his part in the final few weeks of the 2014/15 season.

“This season for me has been about learning to cope with the highs and lows of professional rugby,” says Stuart. “The season started really well, I played a lot more matches than I thought I would, then the injury and a ban halted my momentum, but I am really looking forward to getting stuck back into it before the end of the season.” Having graduated as ‘Player of the Year’ from the Hughes Insurance Ulster Rugby Academy last season, McCloskey quickly made his mark on the senior team with a string of outstanding performances earlier this season: “For me, the transition from the Academy to professional set up has been a smooth one, it was great to get a development contract and now a professional contract this summer. For me the main differences between the two set ups are there are a lot more meetings and a lot more analysis of other teams now. There is not as much of a focus on gym work as there was in the Academy. But a lot more time and effort is spent preparing tactically and also on the pitch. I remember at the beginning last year being in awe of the senior players but now they are more like friends and I definitely look up to guys like Rory and Tommy.” Having suffered ligament, muscle and tendon damage to his elbow against Scarlets in December, Stuart went through surgery and 12 weeks of rehab with the physio team: “To be honest I think my arm is even better now than it was before the injury. At the time it was devastating to be side-lined after playing so much and getting so much experience. It was tough sitting watching the guys for three months but you have to take the rough with the smooth and I am just thankful to be back fit and playing again.” Another blow for Stuart came when he was handed a red card against Edinburgh in February:

“It wasn’t ideal, out injured for 12 weeks, back for two, then out for

another four. The ban came as a bit of a surprise but in rugby now, if anyone goes past the horizontal, it’s a red card. These things happen and you have got to take it in your stride. The incident was unfortunate, Michael and I were trying to do opposite things at the same time and things like that happen when games are on the line.” It’s a crucial few weeks for the squad and Stuart will be competing for a place and preparing hard for this Leinster game just like the rest of the guys… “Our main focus is Leinster, we need to get a win against them to knock them out of the PRO12 and push towards the home playoff. Everyone has been doing a huge amount of preparation over the past few weeks. We have investigated different plays to exploit them, looked at how they played against Toulon last weekend and what their strengths and weaknesses have been over the last few weeks. “In terms of our own squad, yes there is competition in the centre, but each of us offer a different style of rugby. I like to carry the ball more than others so it gives the coaches options and if they want to play a certain style of rugby then different players bring something more suitable to the mix. I think having greater options makes us more competitive and obviously it helps to have that extra bit of cover when players get injured.” “In terms of looking ahead – my goal for the rest of the season is to be named in the squad and to play my part in winning the next few games in our attempt to reach the final. I hope to keep playing well and push for starting positons. In the summer, I hope to get picked for the Emerging Ireland Squad for the IRB Nations Cup.”

STUART McCLOSKEY

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ULSTER RUGBY

www. ulster rugby.com

“IT WAS TOUGH SITTING WATCHING THE GUYS FOR THREE MONTHS BUT YOU HAVE TO TAKE THE ROUGH WITH THE SMOOTH AND I AM JUST THANKFUL TO BE BACK FIT AND PLAYING AGAIN” STUART McCLOSKEY

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ULSTER RUGBY

Kingspan has been a partner of Ulster Rugby for 10 years and we are now proud to give our name to this Stadium. Our passion, as a global leader in sustainable building solutions, is to deliver the highest levels of performance - always. Our respect for Ulster Rugby and its dedicated fans is absolute. Welcome to the Kingspan Stadium.

kingspan.com

#SUFTUM @KINGSPAN STADIUM

Kingspan are offering seven lucky Ulster fans, plus a friend the opportunity to train with the Ulster squad simply by tweeting a #SUFTUM selfie from Kingspan Stadium. Mitchell on his Monday morning show and also via Twitter. The winner from each

COMPETITION TIME

If you are heading to tonight’s Ulster Rugby game simply take a selfie of you / your friends enjoying the action and tweet the image to @KingspanStadium with the #SUFTUM before midnight on Sunday (following the match). The winner, with the best selfie will then be announced by U105 legend, Frank

home match week will then be invited, along with a friend, to attend Kingspan Stadium in May to take part in a training session with members of the Ulster Rugby squad. For full T&Cs please www.ulsterrugby.com

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ULSTER RUGBY

Watch Ulster anywhere you like on Sky Go

skysports.com/rugbyunion Sky Go: UK/Ireland. Streamed via 3G/4G/WiFi to a compatible device (charges may apply). Further terms apply.

THE RAF JOIN FORCES WITH MALONE RFC

Malone RFC continued their close association with the Services recently when our 3rd XV team, ‘The Vikings’ became the proud owners of a new strip sponsored by Royal Air Force Careers based at Palace Barracks, Holywood. Flt Lt Dougal Gow is seen below handing over the new shirt to Patrick Baird, Club Chairman and Team Manager of The Vikings.

THE RAF JOIN FORCES WITH MALONE RFC

Patrick commented, “We are very grateful to the RAF for supporting Malone RFC and the Vikings in supplying us with our new kit, the team rely on raising funds to buy new kit and this has become increasingly hard to do. Our old kit was well past its sell by date. We now have a smashing looking kit which will last a number of years. The team are all delighted.” Speaking on behalf of the team, Andrew Bailie, Team Captain said, “We are all delighted with the new BLK kit which the RAF have purchased for us, the Vikings have had a fantastic season going undefeated in the league and we certainly have looked the part in the new kit, I would personally like to thank the RAF on the behalf of the Vikings and Malone for their generosity and continuing the long association between the two organisations, I am sure this association will continue for many years to come.” The Royal Air Force (RAF) is one of the world’s most advanced military forces, offering exciting opportunities to the right people. If you’re looking for a responsible job that’s challenging and rewarding, the RAF has a career for you. We are currently recruiting for careers in over 50 different trades, from ICT Tech and General Technicians (both Mechanical and Electrical)

to Chef, Caterer and Personnel Support. Lots of jobs are now offering the chance to gain an apprenticeship with courses ranging from 12 months to 36 months. RAF Regulars are our full-time personnel that form the foundation of the RAF, playing a critical role in defence and peacekeeping operations, serving all over the UK and anywhere in the world they’re called upon. They live an exciting life while developing vital skills that will serve them throughout their careers. Sport is one of the activities that keep them fit and ready to operate wherever they are needed. 502 (Ulster) Squadron, RAF Reserves, at Aldergrove, train and work alongside Regulars in their spare-time. Reserves train to the same high standards as Regular personnel and perform a crucial role within the organisation. Working around their civilian day job, they gain transferable skills and a rewarding lifestyle that offers the best of both worlds. Both in the skies above the UK, or airspace around the world, it is the RAF’s job to protect them against any form of threat. To find out more about a career in the Royal Air Force, please visit www.raf.mod.uk/recruitment.

UlsterBranch

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ULSTER RUGBY